Oral health is an important but often overlooked part of maternal and child health. Up to 60–70% of pregnant women experience gingivitis, an early stage of gum disease caused by hormonal changes during pregnancy. Poor oral health has been directly linked to preterm birth and low birth weight, two of the leading causes of infant illness and death. Studies suggest that infectious pathogens from gum disease may contribute to 25–40% of preterm births.
The risks extend beyond delivery. Pregnant women are more prone to cavities due to changes in eating habits, and high levels of cavity-causing bacteria can be passed from mother to baby. This increases the child’s chances of developing cavities threefold. In addition, poor oral health in mothers has been linked to higher risks of gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, stroke, and other cardiovascular diseases.
The elevateHER Oral Health Optimization Program focuses on education, prevention, and referral to dental care. Expectant and postpartum mothers receive information on the risks of poor oral health and how it impacts pregnancy outcomes and long-term wellbeing. Participants are referred to the Jamaica Hospital Dental Center for care and receive dental kits to support daily oral hygiene.
By making oral health a core part of pregnancy care, elevateHER helps women protect themselves and their children—improving outcomes at birth and supporting lifelong health.
